For which mechanisms the first step involved is the same ?

Correct answer: C. E1 and SN1

  • A. E1 + E2
  • B. E2 + SN2
  • C. E1 and SN1
  • D. SN1 and SN2

Explanation

E1 and SN1 reactions both begin with ionization of the carbon-halogen bond to form a carbocation, which is the slow, rate-determining step. They differ in the next step: elimination removes a proton, whereas substitution involves nucleophile attack. Students may choose SN1 and SN2 because both are substitution mechanisms, but SN2 has one concerted step and no carbocation.

Written and checked by , M.Phil ChemistryLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Nucleophilic Substitution

Nucleophilic substitution replaces a leaving group in an alkyl halide when an electron-rich nucleophile attacks the carbon atom. The topic compares SN1 and SN2 mechanisms, including reaction conditions, substrate structure, solvent effects, nucleophile strength, carbocation formation and stereochemical changes, and distinguishes substitution from elimination.

Practise Alkyl Halides

458 free Alkyl Halides MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Chemistry questions like this

Chemistry is on 14 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Nucleophilic Substitution questions